The Colts’ front four has been doing an incredible job in 2020.
It appears the acquisition of DeForest Buckner is already doing wonders for the Indianapolis Colts because the rest of the defensive front four is benefitting greatly.
Buckner’s play and stats speak for themselves (15 tackles, 3 for a loss, 1.5 sacks), but Grover Stewart, Justin Houston and Denico Autry have been beneficiaries of his presence. Indy leads the NFL in most defensive categories (total yards, interceptions, total first downs, touchdowns), but another unexpected stat reveals a big reason for their success.
Defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus is not blitzing often at all (second-lowest percentage in the NFL at 11.8%), but the Colts’ front four is third in pressuring the QB at a 33.3% clip, only behind the Pittsburgh Steelers and New England Patriots, both of whom typically sit atop of the defensive standings at the end of each season.
The Colts are getting most of their pressure from the front four, which is incredible.
— Horseshoe Heroes (@HorseshoeHeroes) October 3, 2020
They're only blitzing 11.8% of the time, which is the second-lowest rate in the NFL.
But they're pressuring opposing QBs at a 33.3% rate, which is good for third overall.
Start blitzing!
Those pressures have led to a league-high six interceptions and the fourth-best percentage of QB hurries (15.1%). Just imagine if Eberflus starts dialing up blitzes? They might destroy every opposing quarterback in their path.
However, they’ve faced some of the worst offensive lines in the NFL in the Jacksonville Jaguars, Minnesota Vikings and New York Jets. While that’s something to keep in mind moving forward, it should not take away from Indy being able to get this much pressure from so few players.
That’s led to points on the defensive end, which has played an immeasurable role in backing the offense and allowing OC Nick Siranni to differentiate the play-calling without having to worry about playing from behind.
The #Colts defense has scored as many points (18) as allowed at home (18) in two weeks at home.
— Cody Felger (@CPFelger55) September 27, 2020
You have to assume the lack of blitzes has allowed the rest of the defense to be on high alert, especially on passing plays, which has helped Indy maintain the lowest amount of yards after completions (253) through Week 3. With more players in coverage, Indy’s D can focus on the man in front of them and work harder to avoid giving up big gains.
Now, we’ll wait for Eberflus to unleash the blitz when their opponents get tougher. Against the Bears this week would be a good start.
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